Name: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 8 h 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick; 5 large eggs; 1 cup half-and-half; 1 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; Maple syrup, for serving

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If you love a show-stopping breakfast that satisfies both a sweet tooth and a craving for creamy comfort, Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast will be your new obsession. The key secret is to Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish, letting every slice soak in a silky vanilla custard before baking to golden perfection. Each bite is crisp on top and luxuriously soft inside, making mornings feel like a truly special occasion—no chef’s degree required!

Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines thanks to simple, classic ingredients that each add something magical—texture, color, and those cozy, nostalgic flavors. From rich dairy to fragrant spice and sturdy bread, it all comes together in the most delightful way.

French bread, 1 loaf (sliced 1-inch thick): The perfect foundation for soaking up that luscious custard without turning soggy.
Large eggs, 5: They form the backbone of the custard, offering richness and structure.
Half-and-half, 1 cup: This adds extra creamy luxury to the custard.
Whole milk, 1 cup: Lightens the mixture while keeping everything smooth.
Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: For irresistible aroma and warmth.
Granulated sugar, 2/3 cup (plus extra for topping): Sweetens the custard and gives that signature brûlée crunch.
Ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds warmth and complexity.
Ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon: For a subtle hint of spice that wakes up the palate.
Unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (cut into small pieces): Melts into the bread, making every bite decadent. But above all: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish!
Maple syrup, for serving: For that classic, sweet finishing touch.

How to Make Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by making sure you Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish—don’t skimp! This isn’t just for easy cleanup; seriously coating the dish creates a gloriously golden, buttery crust on your French toast and ensures nothing sticks. Lay the French bread slices in the dish, overlapping slightly—you want every piece to bask in the custard bath.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a big mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and inviting. This mixture will soak into the bread overnight, turning it from plain slices into silky pillows of flavor. Be sure to whisk thoroughly so you get a smooth, even custard without any lingering streaks of egg white or spice clumps.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Pour your custard slowly and evenly over the bread layer, pausing to let it seep in. Gently press down each slice with a spatula—or your clean hands—so the bread soaks up all that vanilla-speckled goodness. This ensures every piece is custardy through and through, not just on top.

Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the whole dish snugly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Overnight, the bread will absorb the custard, becoming beautifully saturated and ready to bake in the morning. This is what gives the French toast its signature soufflé-like texture.

Step 5: Bake the French Toast

In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap, then dot the top with small pieces of butter. Sprinkle a light layer of sugar over everything for an early hint of caramelization. Pop it in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until puffy and golden brown around the edges—it’ll smell like heaven!

Step 6: Caramelize the Sugar Topping

Now for the fun! Once baked, let the dish cool slightly. Then, right on top, sprinkle a fresh even layer of granulated sugar. Use a kitchen torch or a quick trip under the broiler to caramelize this sugar until it’s crackly and golden. This is where the “crème brûlée” magic really happens.

Step 7: Serve

Let your masterpiece rest for just a few minutes so it can set. Spoon generous slices onto plates, drizzle with maple syrup, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with the very first bite. This is comfort food on a whole new level.

How to Serve Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream all make beautiful finishing touches. They add pops of color against the caramelized top and can make this dish feel extra-celebratory for brunch guests or family alike.

Side Dishes

This rich French toast pairs perfectly with crispy bacon, savory breakfast sausage, or a simple fruit salad. The contrast between sweet, creamy custard and salty or tangy sides helps balance every bite, turning your table into a breakfast buffet to remember.

Creative Ways to Present

To really impress, try arranging the slices slightly fanned out on a platter, drizzle with maple syrup in a zigzag, and scatter edible flowers or finely chopped nuts over the top. For individual servings, use a circle cutter for tidy rounds of French toast, or layer with whipped cream in parfait glasses for a playful twist. However you present it, remember to Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish for that base-layer perfection!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (a big “if”!), let the French toast cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate it in the same baking dish. Leftover slices keep beautifully for up to three days and reheat surprisingly well.

Freezing

To freeze, let the baked French toast cool completely. Cut into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Tuck the pieces into a freezer bag and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving for the best results.

Reheating

For a crispy top, reheat leftover slices in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the sugar topping re-crisps. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but you’ll lose some of that crackly caramel top. (Another reason to Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish each time you bake!)

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of bread?

Absolutely! Brioche or challah work wonderfully and add a touch of extra richness, but sturdier breads hold up best for the overnight soak. Just make sure you can still Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish for optimal texture!

Is it necessary to let the dish rest overnight?

For the dreamiest texture, overnight soaking makes a big difference. The bread absorbs the custard evenly, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful. If you’re pressed for time, at least 4 hours will do in a pinch, but overnight is best.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the half-and-half and milk with full-fat canned coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy milk. Opt for dairy-free butter as well. Just remember to Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish using your dairy-free alternative for the same great result.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No torch? No problem! Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the baked toast, then set your oven to broil and watch closely as the sugar melts and caramelizes. It just takes a minute or two to hit that golden, crackly sweet-spot.

How do I prevent my French toast from getting soggy?

The trick is to use slightly stale bread, which absorbs the custard without collapsing. Also, don’t skip the step to Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish—it creates a barrier that helps the bottom crisp instead of turning soggy.

Final Thoughts

If you crave a breakfast that’s both indulgent and impressive, this is your chance to shine! Invite friends over, Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish, and bring Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast to life in your very own kitchen. I promise it’ll win everyone over, one caramelized, custardy bite at a time!

Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 17 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 8 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent flavors of this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast, a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. With a rich custard base and a caramelized sugar topping, this dish is perfect for a special brunch or holiday morning treat.

Instructions

Prepare the baking dish: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping if necessary.
Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well-combined.
Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring every slice is thoroughly coated. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press the bread into the custard.
Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
Bake the French toast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap. Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle a light layer of sugar over the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed and golden.
Caramelize the sugar topping: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top of the bread. Use a kitchen torch or the broiler setting on your oven to caramelize the sugar until it is golden and crisp.
Serve: Allow the French toast to cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy!

Notes

This dish can be prepared the night before to save time in the morning.
Make sure to use day-old bread for the best texture and absorption of the custard.
Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French